Is the 11 Plus still worth it for 2026 entry? This episode gives parents in Redbridge, East London and Essex a clear view of what has changed since 2023, how GL Assessment now shapes most regions, what CSSE looks for in Essex with written English and problem-solving maths, and why vocabulary, general knowledge, and reading stamina still decide scores. We show what strong Year 6 foundations look like, how to balance preparation without burnout, and a simple way to judge if grammar schools are the right fit for your child.

If you are considering 11 Plus tuition for Year 4 or Year 5, Redbridge Tuition can help with small group classes (max 8), targeted vocabulary and comprehension, GL-style practice, CSSE-style writing and full mock exams.

Centres in Loughton and Seven Kings

Book your free assessment: https://www.redbridgetuition.co.uk/11plus-course

00:00 Is the 11 Plus still relevant in 2026?

00:52 Our background teaching 11 Plus

04:56 GL in 2026: what changed

06:08 CSSE (Essex) written papers

07:57 Independent and other formats

09:27 CEM becomes Cambridge Select

10:50 Where Atom fits in admissions

13:18 Reasoning types: codes, series, 3D

17:13 What to prepare for in 2026 (GL vs CSSE)

18:01 Foundations that matter by Year 6

20:04 The vocabulary and general knowledge gap

26:09 How many grammar schools and where

27:27 Trends in expectations and child choice

35:46 Is 11 Plus prep valuable even without a place?

48:24 Trade-offs and costs to consider

56:05 How to decide if the 11 Plus is right for your child

58:16 Wrap up